David Nichols provides our specialist input in the area of Biomechanical Assessment

A biomechanical assessment is when we examine the way your lower limbs work, checking for abnormalities and possible causes of pain in the foot, ankle, knee and back.

Why might I need a biomechanical assessment?

Very few people are completely symmetrical and this affects the way they stand and move. They may also have additional problems including particularly high or low arches in the feet, one leg longer than the other, or a sports injury. In some cases, people adapt to abnormalities without any problems; however, for other people they can cause pain as the joints, ligaments, muscles and tendons are put under extra stress when they move.

Once we’ve identified the problems that are causing the pain, we can advise on orthotics and made to measure insoles as well as exercises to improve strength and flexibility.

What does the test involve?

The test can take up to 50 minutes and you will need to wear shorts so that we can see your knees and lower limbs as you move. The examination is divided into two sections:

A static assessment during which we will take various measurements while you stand up and lie down

A dynamic assessment during which we may video you as you walk and run using a treadmill so we can analyse your gait (the way you move); you may also be offered digital gait analysis